Introduction:

Lanyards are versatile accessories that can be used for various purposes such as holding keys, identification badges, or simply adding a touch of personal style. Making your own lanyard allows you to showcase your creativity and customize the design to match your preferences. In this article, we will explore three different ways to make lanyards using various materials and techniques.

1. Braided Lanyard:

Materials:

– Three strands of paracord or similar sturdy cord (each about 5 feet in length)

– A keyring or clip

– Scissors

– Lighter (optional)

Instructions:

1. Gather the three strands of paracord and align their ends together.

2. Thread the strands through the keyring and pull them until the ring is at the center of the cords.

3. Divide the cords into three equal parts with one strand acting as a core.

4. Begin braiding by crossing the left cord over the middle, then the right over the new middle, repeating this process until desired length is reached.

5. Knot the end tightly and trim off excess cord.

6. Use a lighter (optional) to melt and seal frayed ends for a polished look.

2. Beaded Lanyard:

Materials:

– Beading wire or elastic cord

– Assorted beads

– A keyring or clip

– Crimp beads

– Wire cutters

– Pliers

Instructions:

1. Cut a length of beading wire or elastic cord about twice as long as your desired lanyard length.

2. Thread one end through a crimp bead and then through your keyring or clip.

3. Loop the wire back through the crimp bead, pull snugly, and use pliers to flatten it securely.

4. Start stringing beads onto your wire or elastic cord, choosing colors and patterns to your liking.

5. Once you’ve reached the desired length, thread on another crimp bead and loop the wire back through it to create a loop.

6. Flatten the crimp bead with pliers and trim off any excess wire or elastic cord.

3. Ribbon Lanyard:

Materials:

– Ribbon (any width, about two times the desired length of your lanyard)

– A keyring or clip

– Sewing machine or needle and thread

– Scissors

Instructions:

1. Cut two strips of ribbon that are both twice as long as your desired lanyard length.

2. Place one strip on top of the other, wrong sides together, and pin along the edges.

3. Starting at one end and working your way down, sew along both edges through both ribbons until you reach the other end.

4. Thread your sewn ribbon through the keyring or clip and fold it in half so that the ring is at the looped end.

5. Sew a straight line across the two loose ends of the ribbon to secure them together, creating a reinforced loop around the keyring or clip.

6. Trim off any excess ribbon at the ends.

Conclusion:

With these three methods at hand, you can create personalized lanyards for yourself or to gift others. Combine materials, colors, patterns, and beads to make each lanyard a unique reflection of your creativity and style. Enjoy making these practical yet stylish accessories for various purposes!